Not Your '80s Workout Videos: Ways to Get Fit Right in Front of Your Screen

The idea of using a workout video to get your heart pumping probably conjures images of dusty old VHS tapes with perky instructors wearing leg warmers. We aren't knocking those old-school Jane Fonda tapes, but we know you are probably looking for a more modern workout. Luckily there are plenty of new workout videos that allow you to sweat it out from the comfort of your own home and get expert advice from some of the best fitness trainers in the industry.

Toning

Mary Helen Bowers has taken many years' worth of professional ballet training and turned it into some pretty intense training sessions—the kind that Victoria's Secret models swear by to create lean and toned muscles. If you can't make it to the Ballet Beautiful studios in New York, you can buy and view one of the many recorded classes. The workouts are tough, but the classical music that plays during the workout will keep you relaxed.

Yoga

Yoga classes are great for keeping stress levels in check, but aren't so great for your wallet. Next time you feel like you need a little more zen in your life, pop in this Yoga for Stress Relief DVD and feel your worries melt away. With 20 different routines ranging from 15-60 minutes, you will be able to cover all of your yoga needs. To enhance your practice, the DVD also has a discussion on meditation from the Dalai Lama.

Cardio

If exercising feels like a chore to you, turn your workout into a dance party. Tracy Anderson's Dance+Cardio video is a fun and effective way to squeeze some cardio into your living room. If it's good enough for Gwyneth Paltrow, it's good enough for us!

Pilates

Not all pilates classes require intense equipment, in fact many don't require any equipment at all. Lara Hudson, a seasoned pilates instructor with 16 years of experience, knows not everyone has time for a full workout every day, so she breaks down pilates exercises into ten minute chunks in her 10 Minute Solution - Rapid Results Pilates video. This way you can squeeze in a workout no matter how hectic your schedule is. And if you do have extra time, you can combine your favorite sessions for a custom workout.

A Bit of Everything

For those who go stir crazy if your routine becomes too familiar, all you need to do for a little variety is head to YouTube. Check out the Tone It Up channel for countless videos that target every area of the body and a variety of different workout styles. Their videos have had almost 45 million views, so you know they have to be good. The best part is that the videos are all completely free to watch.

Would you ever trade your gym membership for a workout video?

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